Ojai City Council Regular Meeting

Homeless Services Funding

• Council approved a motion to utilize $12 million in state funds for thirty permanent shelters.
• The allocation supports case management services for homeless individuals for four to six years.
• The motion to allocate these resources passed the Council.

Energy Efficiency Ordinance

• Staff proposed a point-based system for renovations rather than a mandatory electrification ban.
• Deliberation included public concerns regarding homeowner costs and insufficient community outreach.
• Council members debated the urgency of adoption against the need for additional engagement.
• The first reading failed, directing staff to refine the ordinance after further feedback collection.

Meeting Summary: Ojai City Council

Homeless Services Funding

• The Council approved a motion to utilize existing state funds ($12 million) to construct 30 permanent shelters and support case management services for homeless individuals. This funding is estimated to support the program for four to six years. The motion passed 3-2.

Energy Efficiency Ordinance (Item 5)

• Staff presented a draft ordinance (FlexPath approach) requiring energy efficiency measures for single-family home renovations exceeding 300 or 1,000 square feet. The ordinance uses a point-based system for efficiency rather than a mandatory electrification ban. Exemptions were proposed for historical buildings, repairs, and projects where compliance costs exceed 20% of the total project cost.

Public Comment

• Public feedback was mixed. Supporters argued the ordinance is a necessary step for climate action and public safety. Opponents cited concerns over increased costs for homeowners, the exclusion of rental/investor properties, and a lack of sufficient community outreach prior to adoption.

Council Deliberation and Vote

• Council members debated the urgency of adoption versus the need for more community input. Mayor Gilman and Council Member Rourke expressed concern regarding the imposition of multiple mandates (energy efficiency vs. fire hardening), prioritizing fire safety. Council Member Whitman supported the ordinance but suggested delaying the second reading to allow for more public engagement.

Outcome

• A motion to approve the first reading and schedule a second reading in 45 days failed. Instead, the Council passed a motion (5-0) to direct staff to solicit further community feedback and return to the agenda after a goal-setting session to refine the ordinance. Remaining agenda items were moved to the next meeting. The session adjourned following a brief report on SpaceX/Air Force hearings regarding sonic booms.